The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced two remaining payments for December 2024 for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries. These payments are part of the SSA’s commitment to providing essential financial support to eligible individuals. Here’s a breakdown of the key dates, amounts, and program requirements.
SSDI Payment Schedule for December 2024
Payments are scheduled based on a beneficiary’s date of birth, with the following dates highlighted for this month:
- December 11: Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th, who applied after May 1997.
- December 18: Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th.
- December 24: Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st. This date is adjusted to avoid delays due to the federal holiday on December 25.
These payments mark the last disbursement under the 2024 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which was set at 3.2%. Starting in January 2025, beneficiaries will see a 2.5% COLA increase to reflect rising inflation rates.
How Much Will SSDI Beneficiaries Receive?
The amount of SSDI benefits depends on an individual’s income history, with December’s amounts being:
- Average Monthly Payment: $1,537
- Maximum for Beneficiaries with Blindness: Up to $2,590
- Maximum SSDI Payment: $3,822
These figures aim to provide tailored financial assistance, ensuring that beneficiaries receive support aligned with their circumstances.
Eligibility for SSDI Benefits in 2025
Not everyone with a disability qualifies for SSDI. The SSA uses specific criteria to determine eligibility:
- Proving a Significant Disability:
Applicants must demonstrate a medically proven physical or mental condition that significantly limits their ability to work for at least 12 months or is terminal. - Inability to Work:
Beyond being unable to return to their previous job, applicants must show they cannot perform any substantial gainful activity in the national economy, as outlined in Section 223(d) of the Social Security Act. - Meeting Work History Requirements:
Beneficiaries must have accrued sufficient work credits, typically achieved by working for at least 10 years or meeting credit requirements within the past 35 years.
What’s Next in 2025?
The 2.5% COLA increase will take effect in January 2025, providing modest relief for beneficiaries facing inflation. Payments will remain tailored to each individual’s work history and earnings.
For those with questions or updates regarding their SSDI benefits, the SSA offers resources online and in local offices. Staying informed and ensuring your personal information is accurate will help avoid disruptions in payments.
As the year ends, SSDI beneficiaries can look forward to slightly higher benefits in 2025, reflecting the SSA’s commitment to addressing inflation and supporting individuals with disabilities.
